Worksafe ACT has started a formal investigation into the Skyfire fireworks display that went wrong on Saturday night, focusing on what caused a firework to ignite earlier than planned.
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A barge appeared to explode during the 18-minute display, with fireworks shooting in the direction of audience members sitting on the edge of the lake.
Fortunato Foti, of Foti Fireworks, said his investigation was continuing, with information to be handed to Worksafe ACT. Until the investigation was concluded, he couldn't comment further, he said.
A WorkSafe ACT spokeswoman said the incident was concerning and it was fortunate no one was injured.
"The investigation is ongoing and it is not appropriate at this time to pre-empt outcomes or findings at this time," the spokeswoman said.
"I can advise that the investigation is focused on the cause of the pre-ignition of one of the fireworks. No other agency is involved at this stage."
Canberra FM General Manager Craig Wagstaff said Foti Fireworks would be back for Skyfire in the future.
"The engagement of event partners is a commercial-in-confidence decision for Canberra FM Radio though, as one of the world’s leading pyrotechnic display providers, with whom we have a very close, successful and long-term partnership, our plans are to remain with Foti International Fireworks," Mr Wagstaff said.
Mr Wagstaff said there was a comprehensive event safety management plan in place at Skyfire, with a wide range of pre-emptive measures and procedures in place for safety.
"It is important to note and we can confirm that no members of the public were injured nor have we been advised of any reports to any Emergency Services agencies, who were on standby on-site, with regards to the matter. Post-event, we always review and assess all aspects with the continual aims of enhancing safety, sustainability and enjoyment," he said.
Vice President of the Pyrotechnics Industry Association of Australia Christian Howard said he could tell from video footage of the explosion how quickly safety procedures had been put in place, ensuring no other fireworks were shot off that barge.
He said the incident rate in Australia was very low, considering all fireworks are handmade.
"Fireworks are handmade, so that is something that needs to be taken into consideration. Every one is slightly different with things that are handmade. There is probably one in 1000 that cause an issue of some sort from time to time," Mr Howard said.
Australian operators are constantly sharing information about safety with their international counterparts, he said.
"We’ve got a very safe track record in fireworks displays in Australia. There is a lot of risk management that goes on in the industry around the country."
